A.J. Epenesa Signs One-Year Deal with Cleveland Browns

Former Buffalo Bills defensive end A.J. Epenesa has signed a one-year contract with the Cleveland Browns, reportedly worth up to $5 million. This move marks a significant transition for Epenesa, who spent all six seasons of his NFL career with the Bills after being selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Throughout his tenure in Buffalo, Epenesa participated in 91 regular-season games, recording 135 tackles, 24 sacks, and four interceptions. His performance peaked during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, where he achieved 6.5 sacks in each year, but his production declined in 2025, finishing with only 2.5 sacks.

A.J. Epenesa Spent Six Bills Seasons Building Toward This Browns MoveSports IllustratedHeavyESPNBrowns sign ex-Bills pass rusher to incentive-laden contractAkron Beacon Journal

Epenesa joins a Browns defensive line that features two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett. The addition of Epenesa is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team's edge depth, particularly as Cleveland navigates a rebuilding phase following a disappointing 2025 season, where they won only five games. The Browns have been actively reshaping their roster, and Epenesa's experience and past performance provide a credible option alongside Garrett as they work to improve their defensive capabilities.

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Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry emphasized the importance of adding depth to the defensive line, stating that Epenesa's signing aligns with their goal of maintaining a competitive defense. The Browns' new defensive coordinator, Mike Rutenberg, is expected to utilize Epenesa effectively within the team's system, which aims to maximize the talents of players like Garrett.

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Despite the potential benefits of Epenesa's signing, some analysts have raised concerns regarding his declining performance in the previous season. Pro Football Focus ranked him as the 87th-best edge rusher out of 115 players, highlighting issues in his run defense. Critics argue that while Epenesa provides depth, his ability to contribute significantly to a rebuilding team remains uncertain.

A.J. Epenesa Spent Six Bills Seasons Building Toward This Browns Move

For the Browns, Epenesa's addition is part of a broader strategy to enhance their defensive lineup. The team is expected to continue making roster adjustments as they aim for improvement in the upcoming season. Conversely, the Buffalo Bills now face a challenge in addressing the depth of their defensive line following Epenesa's departure. With the Bills still positioned as Super Bowl contenders, finding a suitable replacement for Epenesa will be crucial as they prepare for the next season.

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• “com/mCHdVLNeIB — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 18, 2026 Epenesa is one of the most underrated players at his position.” — Nick Pedone, Sports Media Professional

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• “But this signing will add talent to the depth of the defensive end position.” — Nick Pedone, Sports Media Professional

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• “Yes — with depth behind Greg Rousseau and Bradley Chubb already considered thin, Epenesa’s exit leaves Buffalo with a notable gap on the defensive line heading into the offseason.” — Altitudes Magazine

A.J. Epenesa Spent Six Bills Seasons Building Toward This Browns Move

This signing represents a pivotal moment for both A.J. Epenesa and the Cleveland Browns as they look to redefine their respective futures in the NFL.

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